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Sea Star Journey Galapagos Cruise

Center, Genovesa, Santiago

15 Days Galápagos cruise on board the Sea Star Journey

Length

15 Days

Ship category

Luxury

Ship type

Small Yacht

Capacity

16 Passengers

Center, Genovesa, Santiago

13 Reviews

Trip highlights

Incredible snorkeling at Devil's Crown

Snorkel with Hammerheads at Darwin Bay

Thousands of Marine Iguanas at Espinosa Point

Scientific insights at C. Darwin Research Station

The Galapatours experience

Amazing sun deck

Wonderful themed itineraries

English-speaking guide for all activities

Lectures in the evening

Get to know the highlights of Galápagos with this Naturalist cruise on board the beautiful Sea Star Journey! On this Expedition Cruise, you will discover the incredible wildlife of the Galápagos Islands: On Española, the oldest and arguably the greenest of the Galápagos Islands, incredible hikes await. You will get to see many endemic species, including the Española Mocking Bird, the Española Lava Lizard, and, hopefully, the famous Waved Albatross. Fernandina, the youngest island, will blow your mind with its rugged lava landscapes. The youngest island in the archipelago, it is still being formed by volcanic eruptions and makes for a wonderful, otherworldly contrast to the other islands. During our visit to Floreana, you will have the opportunity for some great dinghy rides, extensive snorkeling, and learning more about the fascinating human history of the Galápagos. On Genovesa, breathtaking dinghy rides, stunning views and close encounters with the most iconic birds of the Archipelago await you. Blue-footed Boobies, Red-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies and many more species can be seen here. Isabela, the biggest of all islands in the Galápagos, offers you fantastic hikes, views and arguably some of the best snorkeling spots in the Archipelago. On North Seymour, an incredible hike and snorkeling session awaits you. This island is the archipelago condensed into very little space, and you'll be able to see almost all the iconic Galápagos species in just a few hours. On San Cristóbal, you will be able to snorkel in crystal clear waters, relax with sea lions on pristine white sand beaches and learn more about the evolution of giant tortoises. During your time on Santa Cruz, you will have the chance to observe the famous Galápagos Giant Tortoises in the wild and learn more about the preservation and scientific study of these amazing animals. Your visit to Santa Fe will involve a beautiful short hike, during which you can observe Galápagos Hawks, Darwin's Finches, Galápagos Mockingbirds. and Galápagos Sea Lions. On Santiago, an island formerly inhabited by pirates, you will be able to enjoy hikes and dinghy rides. A walk across South Plaza is one of the best visitor experiences in the Galápagos thanks to the large number of species living in such a small area.

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Every travel booking supports local communities through a donation to our V Social Foundation.

Your ship: Sea Star

Sea Star Journey Galapagos Cruise
Sea Star Journey Galapagos Cruise
+37
Sea Star Journey Galapagos Cruise

Sea Star Journey … Read more about Sea Star

Cabins

Sea Star Suite
Sea Star Suite

Type:

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy:

3

More about this cabin

Balcony Suite Sea Star
Balcony Suite (Main Deck)

Type:

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

Galapagos Suite Upper Deck
Galapagos Suite (Upper Deck)

Type:

Double/Matrimionial + Sofabed

Max. occupancy:

3

More about this cabin

Amenities

transfer

Transfers to and from ship

snorkeling

Snorkel gear (free of charge)

footprint

Travel for good: Your Each booking contributes to Ventura’s Conservation Project.

children

-20% for children ≤ 12

triple

Triple cabins

EN guide

English guides

jacuzzi

Sundeck with jacuzzi

kayak

Kayaks on board

air conditioning

Air conditioning & private bathroom

shared bedroom

Single travellers can share cabin

drinks

Water, Coffee, Tea & fresh juices

meal

All meals

connected cabins

Interconnecting cabins

Food & Drinks

The food on our Galápagos cruises is some of the best you will find in South America. Most of the chefs on board are internationally trained and have experience working in the best hotels and restaurants in Ecuador and around the world.

You can expect a first class selection of food including a good variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, locally sourced poultry and fish/seafood, rice and pasta dishes. Most boats will always have some typical Ecuadorian dishes on the menu during your cruise. If you have special dietary requirements, these can usually be accommodated by the chef, provided you give advance notice. Please make sure you inform us of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking. If you leave it until you arrive at the dock, it may not be possible to accommodate your needs.

Most ships serve a variety of options at mealtimes in a relaxed buffet style. At the first-class and luxury end of the market, some ships have more formal dining rooms, where you are served at your table. However, the atmosphere on board our cruises is always relaxed and never stuffy or formal.

Map

Itinerary

Your itinerary below may vary, depending on the weather, wildlife breeding, and local conditions.

Pre-trip add-ons

Flight to Baltra XL1411
Popular

1 Day

4.6

(67)

Flight from Mainland Ecuador to Galápagos

Important: Please do inquire with us for your flights to Galápagos! The timing of your flights is crucial for a smooth operation of your cruises. Together, we must ensure that you arrive well before the departure of the cruise - better even on the exact same flight as the other passengers on board your ship. Therefore: Should you chose to book your own flights from Mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to Galápagos (Baltra Airport or San Cristóbal Airport) and arrive late to Galápagos, then we will not assume any responsibility. The ship might not wait for you, in which case you will **miss your cruise without right to compensation**.

From

USD 299

Sullivan Bay - seaman journey - gal0176

3 Days

4.5

(4)

Day Trip + 2 Hotel Nights

Enjoy a 3-day cruise extension from Puerto Ayora, including a full-day land excursion to an exquisite uninhabited island in the Galápagos. Observe the remarkable biodiversity up close and snorkel in the tropical waters in the afternoon.

From

USD 950

Galapagos Green Turtle

3 Days

4.5

(2)

Diving Trip + 2 Hotel Nights

This Mid-range 3-day cruise extension will take you from Puerto Ayora on a full-day diving trip to one of the most spectacular sites in the Galápagos Islands. Get up close to the amazing life, swim amongst sea turtles, sea lions and an endless array of colorful fish!

From

USD 813

Day 1
AM
Arrival at Baltra airport+transfer to ship
Baltra • Arrival at Baltra airport+transfer to ship
Baltra: Arrival at Baltra airportBaltra: Arrival at Baltra airport + transfer to ship - la pinta yacht galapagos cruise - gal0104 + transfer to ship - la pinta yacht galapagos cruise - gal0104

Welcome to Galápagos! After your flight lands, and you have completed the immigration process, our English-speaking guide will meet you in the Arrivals lounge if you booked your flight tickets with us for the same cruise dates. The guide will then escort you to your transfer vehicle for a short journey to your waiting ship.

If you did not book your flight tickets with us, your voucher will specify the meeting point & time. Please note that the transfer to the meeting point is not included.

Baltra Island, where your arrival airport is, was used as an important Air Force base in the Second World War. This is the primary airport for the Galápagos Islands and you'll be rubbing shoulders with fellow tourists, international naturalists and conservationists, researchers and academics, and Galápagos residents alike. The airport has been built as a "green" airport, and as well as using recycled materials in its construction, it's special design keeps the buildings relatively cool without the need for any air conditioning.

Once on board your ship, you will be introduced to the crew and given a welcome briefing as well as an important safety drill. After this you'll be shown to your cabin. While you're served a well-deserved and delicious lunch, the captain will cast off and your adventure truly starts.

Note: If you plan to spend a few days prior to the cruise in Puerto Ayora and want to do the cruise later this is no problem at all. The transfer from Puerto Ayora to Baltra is very easy.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Brown Pelican

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

Day 1
PM
Dragon Hill
Santa Cruz • Dragon Hill
Dragon Hill

Dragon Hill is the site of a success story in the history of Galápagos conservation. In 1975 almost the entire population of land iguanas in this part of northeast Santa Cruz was wiped out by packs of feral dogs. The Charles Darwin Research Center swung into action with an emergency breeding and rearing program for land iguanas. The program was extremely successful, and the last captive-bred land iguana was released from the breeding center onto Dragon Hill in 1991. Iguanas continue to be released here every 3 or 4 years from other breeding centers in the Galápagos to ensure the continued success of the Dragon Hill Iguanas.

As well as being the landing site to visit the Hill, the rocky shoreline here is a great snorkeling site where you can swim with green turtles, sharks and rays. A trail leads inland past two saltwater lagoons which often play host to flamingos. As you continue to circle Dragon Hill on the trail you'll be able to see land iguanas in the wild, and you can find their burrows all along the path.

As well as the land iguanas, the area around Dragon Hill is full of other species including Darwin's Finches, Galápagos Mockingbirds, and the native Opuntia cactus. This is one of the longer walking trails, and your Galapatours guide will recommend you use good footwear, especially as the trail can be uneven in places and gets slippery and muddy after wet weather.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Greater Flamingo

Day 2
AM
Black Turtle Cove
Santa Cruz • Black Turtle Cove
Black Turtle Cove

The only way into Black Turtle cove is by panga (motorised dinghy). This "secret" corner of the Galápagos feels like your own personal hideout, and once the panga motor is shut off you're surrounded only with the gentle sounds of nature as you drift through the mangroves.

Rich with wildlife, you'll often see Galápagos green turtles feeding, or even mating, in the calm water, as well as different shark species and Galápagos rays.

This is a very different visitor site, showing another side to the Galápagos away from the noise of surf on the beaches and barking sea lions.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Day 2
PM
Chinese Hat
Santiago • Chinese Hat
Chinese Hat

Chinese Hat ("Sombrero Chino" to locals) is an islet set just a short distance off the southeastern coast of Santiago. The small channel between Chinese Hat and mainland Santiago is fairly deep yet sheltered, and the water here is a glistening turquoise.

The islet gets its name because if you approach from the north, you will see that this small volcanic cone does indeed look like the traditional bamboo or rice hat. Viewed from above on a satellite image, however, you will see that this islet is actually more of an oval shape.

There is a short hiking trail on Chinese Hat that runs along the western coast of the islet. This is a harsh landscape of volcanic rubble and lava formations, a very atmospheric reminder of the fiery origins of the Galápagos.

Along the cost of both Chinese Hat and the opposite Santiago shore you are likely to see Galápagos Sea Lions and Galápagos Penguins, either basking in the sun or seeking shade to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Overhead, you might catch a glimpse of the magnificent Galápagos Hawk.

The stand-out reason for a visit to Chinese Hat however is to snorkel in that turquoise channel. Here you can see various species of sharks, rays, and a variety of tropical fish. Not all Galápagos boats can visit, and permits are only given to a select few boats and guides. Here at Galapatours we offer itineraries on all of these specially selected boats, so if a visit to Chinese Hat is important to you, speak to one of our Galápagos experts today to help choose the perfect itinerary.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Day 3
AM
Darwin Bay
Genovesa • Darwin Bay
Darwin Bay

Darwin Bay is a must-visit site for birdwatchers. Starting with a landing on a beautiful white coral beach you are able to follow an easy half-mile trail that will take you through bird-filled mangroves. Species that can be seen on this part of the trail include Nazca Boobies, Galápagos red-footed Boobies, and Swallow-Tailed gulls.

As the path continues you will find tidal pools - favourite spots for Galápagos Sea Lions to lazily swim and play. At the path's end you will come to the top of a cliff which will reward you with a spectacular view.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Sharks

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Red-Billed Tropicbird

Galapatours

Galapagos Fur Seal

Galapatours

Swallow-Tailed Gull

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Red-Footed Booby

Day 3
PM
Prince Philip's Steps
Genovesa • Prince Philip's Steps
Prince Philip's Steps

Named after Prince Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, who visited the Galápagos Islands twice, the Prince Philip's Steps pier uses natural rock formations to allow you to land and admire the variety of seabirds that inhabit Genovesa. With careful steps on the wet and slippery lower rocks, you begin your hike near a small colony of Galápagos sea bears before reaching the beautiful vantage point further up with views of the lava plains.

The birdlife will surround you from all sides and you will enjoy the sight and sounds of many wonderful species, including blue-footed boobies, red-footed boobies and Nazca boobies, but also small Galápagos owls and Galápagos pigeons.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapatours

Red-Billed Tropicbird

Galapatours

Galapagos Fur Seal

Galapatours

Swallow-Tailed Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Red-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Day 4
AM
A walk on Bartholomew
Bartholomew • A walk on Bartholomew
A walk on Bartholomew, Galápagos

Bartholomew (known as Bartolomé locally) is the most popular excursion for Galápagos visitors, and its iconic scenery is the most photographed in the whole archipelago.

To start your walk on this island you will land in the small bay opposite the famous Pinnacle Rock. You then start the climb to the 375ft peak of Bartholomew. You’ll travel along a half mile trail that includes a series of wooden steps that have been built by the National Park Service to protect the ground here from erosion caused by tourists hiking to the summit.

When you arrive at the top of island the spectacular views will have made your efforts worthwhile. Your Galapatours expert guide will point out all the landmarks you will see from here - Pinnacle Rock itself, jutting skywards. The huge black lava flows of Sullivan Bay. The islands of Daphne Major and Daphne Minor.

On the way back down, you will be able to recognise the different volcanic formations evident on the island, such as tuff cones and volcanic spatter. You'll also see some remarkable examples of the Galápagos' ability to highlight the adaptation of species. For example the  bushes that all look dead are actually very much alive, with leaves covered with special grey hairs that help to reflect the harsh sun and reduce moisture loss for the plants.

Back at the beach there is excellent snorkeling, thanks to the underwater caves and rocks in the area. You will see various sharks, rays and tropical fish. You may also see Galápagos Penguins swimming with you!

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Day 4
PM
Sullivan Bay
Santiago • Sullivan Bay
Sullivan Bay

Sullivan Bay is on the eastern coast of Santiago Island. This visitor site is all about the geology and volcanic origins of the Galápagos, and although there is little wildlife here, the eerie landscape that was formed only 150 years ago has a real beauty all of its own.

On the hiking trail you will walk along lava that bubbled up from the ground, flowed and solidified in the second half of the 18th century. We recommend good sturdy shoes for walking in these lava fields. The landscape here is eerie and apparently barren - some of our Galapatours guests liken it to a "lunar landscape".

As the trail moves inland, the textures and colors change as you encounter much older lava fields. Here you can start to see signs of nature beginning to colonize this "new land". The small green plants that have started to grow in the cracks and crevices are called Mollugo.

Your Galapatours expert guide will be able to explain more about the volcanic processes that formed Santiago and all the Galápagos Islands, as well as how species begin to colonize the bare landscape.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Day 5
AM
Santa Cruz Highlands
Santa Cruz • Santa Cruz Highlands
El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve

Santa Cruz is the only island on the Galápagos that allows you to travel through every habitat type that exists in the archipelago. This makes the journey north from the coast up into the highlands a fantastic opportunity to experience the breadth of life that exists on these islands.

Your bus journey starts from Puerto Ayora on the coast and you slowly start to climb through the agricultural zone where open fields begin to give way to lush, green, mist-covered forests. This is a marked contrast to many of the islands which are at much lower elevation and much more arid. This rich verdant landscape is predominantly made up of dense Scalesia forest.

Your expert Galapatours guide will stop several times along the route to allow you to explore various different sites. Among the stops will be a Giant Tortoise reserve, and also a visit to the famous lava tubes. Over half a mile long, a walk through these natural volcanic features is eerie and unforgettable.

Also along the way you will stop for refreshments, and you'll be able to try locally-grown Galápagos coffee - we think it's among the best we've ever tasted!

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Giant Tortoise

Galapatours

Galapagos Barn Owl

Galapatours

Galapagos Red Bat

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Vermilion Flycatcher

Galapatours

Galapagos Short-eared Owl

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Galapatours

Galapagos Rail

Galapatours

Galapagos Racer Snake

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

Day 5
PM
Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz • Charles Darwin Research Station

The world famous Charles Darwin Research Center is just a 10 minute walk from downtown Puerto Ayora, and is the home of the non-profit Charles Darwin Foundation.

Inside, you'll find exhibits about the geography, geology and climate of the Galápagos, and the evolution of her unique species. There is also lots of information on the Foundation's current conservation and education programs.

As well as conducting it's own key research, the Charles Darwin Center also hosts international scientists, and supports the work of government agencies like the Galápagos National Park.

Next door is the site of the Galápagos' first giant tortoise breeding center, where pioneering work has been done since 1965 for the preservation of these species. Here you can see newly hatched babies, up to juveniles and full-grown adults ready to be released back into the wild.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Giant Tortoise

Galapatours

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

Day 6
AM
Las Tintoreras
Isabela • Las Tintoreras
Las Tintoreras

Las Tintoreras are a group of small islets just a few hundred metres from the shores at Villamil, only accessible by kayak or panga. The network of Tintoreras forms a patchwork over the stunning turquoise waters of the bay, and this natural shelter is a haven for wildlife.

At low tides, one shallow lagoon is famous for offering amazing views of sharks swimming near the surface - the water clarity is such that they often look like they are floating in air! Other species that call Las Tintoreras home include Galápagos marine iguanas and friendly (and noisy) Galápagos Sea Lions.

Depending on tide conditions and time of year, it may be possible to snorkel here. If this is important to you, speak to one of our Galápagos experts who can advise you on the best itineraries to choose to meet your requirements.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Day 6
PM
Sierra Negra Volcano
Isabela • Sierra Negra Volcano
Sierra Negra Volcano

Sierra Negra is renowned as the most impressive volcano in the Galápagos. The crater is over 6 miles across and is the second largest in the world.

However, to visit the volcano is quite a logistical effort. The only way to get there is to start with a 45 minute drive from Villamil to a trailhead from where you can follow another 2 hours of trails up to and along part of the rim.

There's also the option to walk on quite recent lava flows, as the so-called parasitic cone of Volcan Chico last erupted in 1979 leaving large flows to cool to rock.

The journey is well worth the effort, as the views from the rim of Sierra Negra are simply stunning. You can see across the other volcanoes on Isabela and across to Fernandina.

Your expert Galapatours guide will explain in detail about the geological processes that shaped not only this part of Isabela, but of the whole Galápagos.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Vermilion Flycatcher

Galapatours

Galapagos Red Bat

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Martin

Galapatours

Galapagos Short-eared Owl

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Galapatours

Galapagos Rail

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

Day 7
AM
Moreno Point
Isabela • Moreno Point
Moreno Point

Moreno Point (known locally as Punta Moreno) is a short journey from Elizabeth Bay on the west coast of Isabela Island. You will take a panga ride which will give you great views of the striking rocky shoreline before you make your landing.

Here you will see the eerie site of a huge lava field leading up to the distant Cero Azul volcano. Hiking through this alien landscape you will come across several tidal lagoons, pools and mangroves - all of which provide an oasis for a range of wildlife, particularly bird species.  In the larger tidal pools you may see green turtles or sharks, the clear waters giving you a unique opportunity to view them from on land!

On your journey back to the boats from your 1.2 mile hike you're likely to see Galápagos Penguins on the rocky shores as well a range of birds including herons and Galápagos Flamingos. This is a favorite excursion as it combines the opportunity to see coastal species with a hike through stunning landscapes.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Martin

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

White-cheeked Pintail

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Greater Flamingo

Day 7
PM
Elizabeth Bay
Isabela • Elizabeth Bay
Elizabeth Bay

On the eastern coast of Isabela, the wide and sheltered Elizabeth Bay is a haven for wildlife. With areas of mangrove on the shore that contrast with the surrounding lava fields, and a myriad of small islets and rocky reefs, this is a particularly rich area for wildlife.

Accessible only by panga (small motorised dinghy), exploring Elizabeth Bay will provide you with an opportunity to get up close and personal with many of Isabela's species. During your 2 hour boat ride around Elizabeth Bay you can see rays, sharks, green sea turtles, Galápagos penguins, pelicans, and plenty of Galápagos Sea Lions. Nearer to the shores and mangroves, you'll see Galápagos Flightless Cormorants and marine iguanas.

Galapatours guests regularly tell us that Elizabeth Bay is one of their favourite Galápagos excursions and visitor sites.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Flightless Cormorant

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Day 8
AM
Espinosa Point
Fernandina • Espinosa Point
Espinosa Point

Fernandina Island has never been colonised by any non-native species, and this makes it ones of the world's most pristine island ecosystems. Coupled with its young age (Fernandina was only formed a few hundred thousand years ago) this makes a visit to this Galápagos island very special indeed.

At Espinosa Point on the northeastern shore of Fernandina the vista is dominated by "La Cumbre", the volcano whose lava fields formed the island. A visit to Espinosa Point is high on many people's list thanks to the number of iconic unique Galápagos species you will see here. As well as the noisy and fun-loving Galápagos Sea Lions, Espinosa Point is a great place to see Marine Iguanas, the wonderful Galápagos Penguins and the unique and endangered Galápagos Flightless Cormorant. If you are very lucky and keep your eyes skyward you may also catch sight of a Galápagos Hawk circling overhead looking for its next meal.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Flightless Cormorant

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Day 8
PM
Tagus Cove
Isabela • Tagus Cove
Tagus Cove

Tagus Cove is a sheltered deep-water bay on the western coast of Isabela Island, overlooking Fernandina Island. This natural anchorage has been a popular destination for ships since the 1800s, and when you come ashore you can see ancient graffiti left by whalers and buccaneers.

A steep (but thankfully short) hiking trail then takes you up to the salt water Darwin Lake, formed inside a volcanic cone. How did salt water get all the way up here? Scientists think tsunamis caused by eruptions or landslides on Fernandina may have deposited seawater originally, and then evaporation has made it even more salty over time.

From Darwin Lake, a series of 160 steps takes you to a stunning viewpoint where you will not only enjoy amazing views over the Galápagos, but may also see some unique wildlife, such as Galápagos Hawks, Vermilion Flycatchers, and species of Darwin's Finches.

Your panga ride along the shoreline back to your ship gives a great opportunity to see Galápagos Flightless Cormorants, Galápagos Penguins, Galápagos Martins, and the friendly Galápagos Sea Lions.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

Galapatours

Galapagos Martin

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Flightless Cormorant

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Vermilion Flycatcher

Galapatours

Brown Pelican

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Day 9
AM
Buccaneer Cove & Espumilla Beach
Santiago • Buccaneer Cove
Santiago - Buccaneer Cove - nemo i galapagos cruise - gal0087

Sited on the northwest coast of Santiago Island, Buccaneer Cove wasn't named as a romantic fancy, but because it actually was used extensively by pirates, privateers, buccaneers and whalers to set anchor and head ashore.

Of all the Galápagos Islands, Santiago was most frequently used as a stop over as it provided easy access to fresh water, wood, and meat. Used since the 1600s as a staging point, the easy-to-catch Giant Tortoises that lived here became a useful source of protein for the sailors. There was a more strenuous journey required up to the highlands in search of water, but the sheltered cove made this a better location than some of the more open coast elsewhere.

Today the steep cliffs above the cove are filled with nesting seabirds, wheeling in the air above the deep red sands of the beach. This is a good site for snorkeling or to stroll along the beach drinking in the sights and sounds of the Galápagos, and you will often find yourself sharing the sand and rocks with sea lions or Galápagos Fur Seals.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Fur Seal

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Santiago • Espumilla Beach
Espumilla Beach

Espumilla Beach is located at the northern end of James Bay, a large bay on the northwestern coast of Santiago. This is a pretty beach that is fringed with lush green forests.

The beach itself is home to marine iguanas who feed among the rocks at either end of the beach, and it is a good place to snorkel, with visitors often reporting sightings of sharks, rays and octopus. This is also a nesting site for Galápagos green turtles.

There is an inland hiking trail here that takes visitors past a seasonal lagoon that's often bright green thanks to the algae in the water. Here you can find Galápagos flamingos and pin-tail ducks. The trail then loops through the arid zone, where you can see further bird species including Galápagos Hawks that often circle overhead.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

White-cheeked Pintail

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Greater Flamingo

Day 9
PM
Egas Port
Santiago • Egas Port
Santiago - Egas Port - nemo i galapagos cruise - gal00

Puerto Egas (Port Egas) is a sheltered landing site at the southern end of James Bay on the northwestern coast of Santiago. This landing site is the trailhead for two hiking paths.

The first trail runs along the coast to visit the so-called "Fur Seal Grottos". The Galápagos Fur Seals like to seek shade from the equatorial sun, and they prefer rocky shores with caves or other nooks and crannies in which they can keep cool. The grottos here are perfect for them, and the tidal pools are also popular with Galápagos Marine Iguanas who can be seen feeding in and around them.

The second trail from Egas Port heads inland to the "Salt Mine Volcano". This hike is just under 2 miles long and takes you to the rim of a salt mine crater. This "mine" is actually a small volcanic cone that is filled with a salt water lagoon that dries up in the dry season. At several points in the 20th century individuals or companies attempted to mine salt from it, but without commercial success. The name of your landing site is after the owner of the last company to try salt mining here, Hector Egas.

The lagoon is often home to Galápagos flamingos and other birds, and the wonderful Galápagos Hawk can often be seen circling above this area.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Fur Seal

Galapatours

Swallow-Tailed Gull

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

White-cheeked Pintail

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Day 10
AM
Lobos Island
San Cristóbal • Lobos Island
Lobos Island

Lobos Island is named after the colony of Galápagos Sea Lions that live here, but they aren't the only native Galápagos species that calls this narrow island home. You can see Galápagos Fur Seals basking here, and there is a nesting colony of Blue-Footed Boobies that come to Lobos each year to raise their chicks.

There are one or two short hiking trails that lead into the center of the island, and this is always a peaceful place to visit. Galapatours visitors tell us it's one of their favorite visitor sites to just sit and soak up the Galápagos atmosphere.

Back on the beach, the swimming and snorkeling is wonderful, and thanks to the island's position close to the main shore of San Cristobal, the channel between them is sheltered and the turquoise water is crystal clear.  This is a Galapatours favorite spot, so speak to one of our Galápagos specialists if you want help choosing an itinerary that includes a visit to this special place.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Fur Seal

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Red-lipped Batfish

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Day 10
PM
La Galapaguera / Cerro Colorado & Puerto Chino
San Cristóbal • La Galapaguera / Cerro Colorado
La Galapaguera "Jacinto Gordillo Breeding Center"

Also known as Cerro Colorado, this is one of the newer visitor sites in Galápagos and was opened in 2003. Previously accessible only from the coast via a long hike, it's now possible to travel by road from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where the trip takes about an hour.

This breeding station has an informative visitor center that allows you to learn about the origins and evolution of the Galápagos Giant Tortoises, and about the steps being taken to preserve the species from threats such as habitat destruction and introduced species.

In the center you will see baby hatchlings and young tortoises. After they reach 4 months old they are taken out to be released into the natural habitat in the area. There is a short hiking trail where you may be able to spot giant tortoises in the wild.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Giant Tortoise

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Red Bat

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Galapatours

Galapagos Rail

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

San Cristóbal • Puerto Chino
Puerto Chino

This small, pretty beach is across the other side of the island from the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and it can be accessed by a walking trail from the road that runs past La Galapaguera at Cerro Colorado.

With its white sand and turquoise water, Puerto Chino is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean. It's good to swim and snorkel here, and if you do, you may see Galápagos green turtles and stingrays. Sea Lions also sometimes bask on the rocks beside the beach, and you can often see Blue-Footed Boobies.

Here at Galapatours, this is one of our favorite spots as it's out of the way and takes a little effort to get to - but that effort is rewarded with a wonderful location, perfect for a relaxing sunbathe or snorkeling adventure.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

American Oystercatcher

Day 11
AM
Gardner Bay
Española • Gardner Bay
Gardner Bay

Gardner Bay is a wonderfully sheltered area on the eastern shore of Espanola Island. It boasts one of the best beaches in the Galápagos, with superb white sand. There is nowhere better on the archipelago to simply sit back, relax, and take in the marvels of the wildlife around you.

The beach here is home to a large colony of Galápagos Sea Lions, who seem to love sunbathing on the beach as much as we humans do! As well as the fun-loving Sea Lions you can also find Galápagos Mockingbirds here. These birds are full of curiosity, and have been known to come and investigate bootlaces, camera straps and other equipment!

The wonderful Galápagos Green Sea Turtle can also often be seen in the shallows here, and along with a large variety of colorful reef fish, this makes Gardner Bay a great place to swim and snorkel.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Waved Albatross

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Day 11
PM
Suarez Point
Española • Suarez Point
Suarez Point

Suarez Point is on the western tip of Espanola and is one of the most wildlife-packed of all the visitor sites in the Galápagos. After a wet landing on a beach that's frequented by Galápagos Sea Lions you can enjoy a 2 mile hike along a trail that will take you up around the cliffs.

The range of wildlife on show here is simply stunning. This is a great place to view the remarkable Galápagos Blue-Footed Booby as well as their cousins the Nazca Booby. You can also see the rare Waved Albatross at Suarez Point, where they use the cliff tops to launch themselves into the air over the ocean.

Another famous natural feature here is the blowhole. This geological formation funnels the incoming waves into a chamber where it gets compressed and then the air and seawater are forced out at great speed, making a spectacular plume of water shoot high into the air.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Waved Albatross

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Day 12
AM
Cormorant Point & Devil's Crown
Floreana • Cormorant Point
Cormorant Point

Cormorant Point is on the northern tip of Floreana, and you'll land on a beach that sits between two volcanic cones. The sand on one of the beaches here has a noticeably olive-green color. This is due to a much higher than usual concentration of olivine crystals in the sand. Another beach is made up mainly of coral sand and is almost a brilliant white in comparison.

This Galápagos site has a large lagoon which is favored by flamingos, their pink coloring contrasting with the green sand. There is some good snorkeling here, and you can often spot rays in the shallows. There is a one mile hike available that takes you to higher ground and provides great views over the lagoon, and to both beaches on either side of the Point.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Robin

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Red-lipped Batfish

Galapatours

Mobula Rays

Floreana • Devil's Crown
Devil's Crown

Once a volcanic crater, the Devil's Crown is now what remains of the eroded crater. The wind and waves have breached the east and west walls, leaving just the northern and southern crater edges showing above the water. Over thousands of years a coral reef has grown in the submerged center, creating one of the best snorkeling sites on the entire Galápagos.

Exposed to currents, snorkeling in the Devil's Crown isn't a sedentary experience, and the surges can be quite thrilling! The marine life you will see is unparalleled, with colorful reef fish, sharks, rays and more. If your itinerary includes a stop here, you really must get into the water as it's an experience not to be missed.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Sharks

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Galapatours

Brown Pelican

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Day 12
PM
Post Office Bay & Baroness View Point
Floreana • Post Office Bay
Post Office Bay

Floreana, like several of the Galápagos Islands, has a history of whaling. During voyages of many months, whaling ships would call here to replenish stocks of food and water, and the sailors were often keen to send news to loved ones that they were still safe. A tradition grew up here where sailors would leave a letter addressed home, hopeful that a ship heading back to port would pick it up and deliver it for them. This tradition of leaving letters and cards, and picking up others addressed to your home port meant that the location of this letter drop became known as "Post Office Bay".

Decades later, the unofficial Floreana post office is still very active - why not leave a card of your own, or see if you could take one back to your home town for someone else?! As well as this charming tradition, Post Office Bay boasts a pleasant beach, and there is a short hiking trail down to a cave, which is actually a lava tube that runs down to the sea.

You will also have the opportunity to take a Panga through some of the nearby coves and mangroves from which you could see sharks, rays, and sea lions swimming around you.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Penguin

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Shearwater

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Floreana • Baroness View Point
Baroness View Point

Located on the northern coast of Floreana Island, the Baroness Viewpoint is a wonderful place to soak in the beauty and diversity of the Galápagos.

This visitor point is named after the "Baroness" Eloise Bosquet de Wagner Wehrhorn (her claim to be a member of the Austrian royal family was never fully confirmed) who came to the island with her two - some say three - lovers in the 1930s. After some disagreements with two other eccentric settler families, the Baroness and one of her lovers disappeared. Local legend has it that murder was involved…

Away from this exotic intrigue, the view point has some lovely and easy walking trails that allow you to get really close to the bird and plant life of the island.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird

Day 13
AM
A walk on Santa Fe
Santa Fe • A walk on Santa Fe
South Plaza - la pinta yacht galapagos cruise - gal0104

Santa Fe is a small, flat island right in the center of the Galápagos archipelago, and is thought to be one of the oldest volcanoes here. Dating of the rocks below the water estimates they were formed almost 4 million years ago.

Santa Fe had its own breed of Giant Tortoise that became extinct at some point in the 1800s due to being hunted for meat. There are two species that are unique to the island still present here - the Santa Fe Land Iguana, and the Santa Fe Rice Rat.

There is one visitor site on Santa Fe, and you will have a panga ride to a wet landing on the beach at Barrington Bay on the island's north coast. From here there are two hiking trails. One is a short loop close to the beach that takes you into an Opuntia forest filled with these massive cactus. This is the best opportunity to see the Santa Fe land iguanas and also other species such as Galápagos Hawks.

The second trail is a tougher proposition as it climbs quite steeply to the top of a cliff from where you will enjoy stunning views over the island's unspoilt interior.

Back on the beach you can join the Galápagos Sea Lions who often play in the waves and you can enjoy some wonderful snorkeling in the clear blue-green waters here.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Galapatours

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Hawk

Galapatours

Belted Kingfisher

Galapatours

Galapagos Rice Rat

Galapatours

Brown Pelican

Galapatours

Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Day 13
PM
A walk on South Plaza
South Plaza • A walk on South Plaza
A walk on South Plaza

Whilst her twin, North Plaza, is closed to visitors, South Plaza is one of the best visitor sites in the Galápagos thanks to the large number of species present on her small area.

The Plazas were formed as the result of a geological uplift, and because this was uneven they both have cliffs on their south sides and low lying shores on their northern coasts.

The most noticeable (and noisiest) of South Plaza's residents are her Galápagos Sea Lions, who have a large colony here. Less obvious are her land iguanas (the smallest in the islands), many marine iguanas and large numbers and varieties of seabirds.

Inland is a mix of scrubby vegetation and giant opuntia cactus forest, providing food for the iguanas. As you follow the circular hiking trail you will come to the summit of the cliffs here where you'll be among countless nesting seabirds.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Nazca Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

Galapatours

Red-Billed Tropicbird

Galapatours

Swallow-Tailed Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Frigatebirds

Galapatours

Galapagos Petrel

Day 14
AM
North Seymour
North Seymour • North Seymour
A walk on North Seymour

The island is named after an English nobleman, Lord Hugh Seymour and has an area of 1.9 square kilometers and a maximum altitude of 28 meters. This island is home to a large population of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls and hosts one of the largest populations of frigatebirds. North Seymour has a visitor trail approximately 1.2 mi in length crossing the inland of the island and exploring the rocky coast.

North Seymour was formed at the same time as neighboring Baltra Island, and by the same process - an uplifting of undersea lava. This small, flat island has hiking trails throughout, allowing you to explore the arid landscape and to meet the seabirds that call North Seymour home.

North Seymour was the site of one of the earliest conservation experiments in the Galápagos. In 1934 a group of Galápagos Land Iguanas were moved there by Captain Hanckock. They have since thrivedthrived, and there are now well over 2,500 of them on the island and more than 3,000 on the neighbouring Baltra island.

The biggest attraction of North Seymour is its large colony of Blue-Footed Boobies and its Frigatebirds. These popular Galápagos species are often found together because the Frigatebirds rely on the Boobies’ fishing prowess. The Frigatebirds actively steal the Boobies catch to feed themselves!

There is also a population of Marine Iguanas and Galápagos Sea Lions are frequently spotted. The snorkeling here is also very good, with plenty of marine life to see including rays and reef sharks.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

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Galapagos Sting Rays

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Galapagos Frigatebirds

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Galapagos Sea Lion

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Galapagos Marine Iguana

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Galapagos Land Iguana

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Galapagos Lava Lizard

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Galapagos Petrel

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Swallow-Tailed Gull

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Blue-Footed Booby

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Brown Pelican

Galapatours

Darwin's Finches

Day 14
PM
Bachas Beach
Santa Cruz • Bachas Beach
Bachas Beach

The name "Bachas Beach" (or "Las Bachas" in Spanish) actually comes from a mispronunciation! After the second world war, American forces stationed on Santa Cruz abandoned some of their barges there - "bachas" was the nearest some of the locals could get to pronouncing the English word, and the name has stuck. You can still see the remains of one of the floating docks the soldiers set up on one of the two beaches that make up Las Bachas Beach.

This beach is covered in white coral sand, and it's a major nesting site for Galápagos green turtles. There's also a lagoon just behind the sand which often hosts flamingos, ducks and migratory birds. You can also often find marine iguanas feeding on the rocky outcrops near the tide line.

The main beach is perfect for swimming, being very sheltered from the ocean swells, and is a very pleasant spot to cool off and to indulge in some snorkeling.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Marine Iguana

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Lizard

Galapatours

Great Blue Heron

Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Heron

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Galapagos Frigatebirds

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Galapagos Petrel

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Greater Flamingo

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Galapagos Sea Lion

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Galapagos Green Turtle

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Blue-Footed Booby

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Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Galapagos Sting Rays

Day 15
AM
Mosquera Islet & Transfer to Baltra airport
Baltra • Mosquera Islet
Mosquera Islet

Mosquera Islet, like may similar islets in the Galápagos, was formed by a volcanic uprising. Over the centuries it also attracted corals, and along with the rocks that form the islet this helped to capture the sand from the currents that flow between Baltra Island and North Seymour Island.

Mosquera is home to one of the largest populations of Galápagos Sea Lions on the archipelago, and you will be able to watch their playful antics and admire their sense of relaxation as they sunbathe on the beach.

There have been occasional sightings of Orca (Killer Whales) in the waters off Mosquera Island, probably attracted by the large number of Galápagos Sea Lions on which they prey.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Lava Gull

Galapatours

Galapagos Dove

Galapatours

Blue-Footed Booby

Galapatours

Galapagos Sea Lion

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Galapagos Marine Iguana

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Galapagos Green Turtle

Galapatours

Galapagos Sharks

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Galapagos Lava Lizard

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Galapagos Petrel

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Mobula Rays

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Galapagos Frigatebirds

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Brown Pelican

Baltra • Transfer to Baltra airport
Transfer from ship to Baltra airport (organized)

Your Galápagos adventure ends with the arrival of your ship back at Baltra Island. After what many guests describe as an emotional goodbye to your ship and its crew, you'll board the transfer vehicle that will take you on the short journey to the airport in plenty of time for your flight back to the mainland.

Note: If you want to spend some time in Galápagos after your cruise, please let us know. This is no problem at all and the transfer from Baltra to Puerto Ayora couldn't be easier.

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Galapatours

Galapagos Mockingbird